This new course, designed to help in the preparation of applications to the National Institute for Health Research or other research funding body, is principally aimed at researchers and clinicians who have some experience of research but have not previously been principal investigators in this type of project. However the course is not restricted to potential principal investigators: other members or indeed more than one member of a research team will be very welcome.

On registration for the course, each participant will be expected to submit a research idea which they would like to work up towards a proposal in the workshop sessions. There will be advice given on the importance of literature reviews, different quantitative designs and qualitative methods, the use of mixed methods in health research, health economics, the role of your local Research Design Service, other sources of support, funding streams and building a suitable research team.

A third day, to be held Monday 27th September, will provide an opportunity for participants to present the proposal they have been working on to a panel of experts and peers for feedback and further development.

This course will be free of charge to NHS, social care and voluntary sector researchers and their academic partners. Full time students not normally accepted. Applicants will be informed at a later stage if accepted on to the course.